Tai cheese, anyone?

A dairy farmer who believes a happy cow is a productive cow has discovered an unusual way to relax his herd and increase milk yields â tai chi.

Cool cattle: Rob Taverner performs tai chi in front of his cows every morning because he believes it relaxes them and they produce more milk

Rob Taverner performs the ancient martial art in front of his 100 cows every morning to get them in the right moo-d to produce lots of milk.

The 44-year-old organic farmer visits the animals at 9am each day to run through his ten-minute routine of slow movements and breathing techniques â dressed in his distinctive overalls and wellies.

He said: ‘Tai chi is all about leaving your problems behind and getting into a better zone and my mood definitely transfers to the cows.

‘Like all animals, they are very receptive to human emotions and can sense feelings such as relaxation, calmness and happiness.

‘Some people think what I do is ridiculous but I have some very content cows and I would do anything to keep them that way. As any good dairy farmer will tell you, a happy cow is a productive cow.’

Lunch break: The cows enjoy a bite to eat during another relaxing tai chi session

Mr Taverner, who runs the farm near Exeter, Devon, with his 41-year-old wife, Helen, and their children Charlie, 16, William, 14 and 12-year-old Katie, said there were many similarities between tai chi and organic farming.

He added: ‘Organic farming, just like tai chi, is all about maintaining a balance.

‘Being an organic dairy farmer is hard work and I just want to make sure I am as relaxed and focused as possible. I enjoy it.’

Tai chi is a Chinese martial art involving a series of slow, controlled movements which can help developing strength, balance, posture and a feeling of calm.